Coastal Exploration by Zodiac

Get away from it all on a small group experience that explores the surrounding waterways by Zodiac.

Be outfitted in rain gear, rubber boots and a life jacket before you depart directly from Icy Strait Point. Following a safety briefing, you will get to captain the boat yourself as you traverse the protected waterways.

You’ll board a four-passenger boat and head out into the wilderness to explore the beautiful coastlines of Port Frederick and Icy Strait. Depending on weather and recent wildlife sightings, your guide will choose a route that is best suited for the day’s conditions. Be escorted by a knowledgeable guide and learn about the area’s history and culture as you look for wildlife such as humpback whales, sea lions, seals, eagles and bears.

Following your maritime adventure, return to the dock and warm up with a hot beverage before returning to your ship.

Duration:

Approximately 2.5 hours

Minimum age:

6 years old

Restrictions:

Guests must weigh between 30 lbs. and 350 lbs. Drivers must be at least 25 years of age and present a valid driver’s license or other proof of age.

Notes:

Maximum of four guests per boat and all eligible guests will have a chance to drive. Parties under three will share a boat. Tour route may change due to daily tide and weather variations. This tour is not a good choice for guests with back or neck injuries, or expectant mothers. The seas can become rough and bumpy.

Provided:

Life jacket, rain gear, rubber boots.

Ocean Raft Adventure

Experience a thrilling wilderness adventure in an open-air, high speed boat that takes you along the rugged coastline in search of wildlife.

Gear-up in a survival suit, lifejacket, hat, neck gaiter (scarf), goggles and gloves. Then board our 27-foot Rigid Hull Inflatable vessel designed for high speeds and optimal maneuverability. Delight your senses as the fresh ocean air rushes past and the beauty and majesty of Alaska takes your breath away.

During this 1.5 hour thrill ride, the captain adjusts the route based on weather conditions and wildlife viewing. Get up-close views of waterfalls, tidal flats and abundant wildlife that live on the rugged shores such as the coastal brown bear and Sitka black-tailed deer. Also, keep an eye out for marine life such as sea lions, sea otters, seals, humpback whales and Orcas. Bald eagles, puffins and other waterfowl may surprise you along the way.

At opportune times the captain will stop the boat to tell you about what makes these waterways so important to the local Native Tlingit. Hear a Tlingit story related to the area or learn about the subsistence lifestyle that continues to be a way-of-life in Hoonah.

Return to the dock with a greater appreciation of the natural landscape and a sense of awe that leaves you with lasting memories. Enjoy a hot beverage before returning to your ship or exploring the cannery and nature trail at Icy Strait Point.

Duration:

Approximately 2 hours

Minimum Age:

10 years old

Restrictions:

Guests must not weigh more than 250 pounds.

Notes:

Guests must be able to walk without assistance. This tour is not recommended for guests with back/neck injuries or expectant mothers. Guests should consider their physical fitness level and medical history when considering this tour.

Wilderness Hike

Hike through the wilderness and along the hillsides of Chichagof Island.

Drive through the village of Hoonah, the largest Tlingit village in the world, on your way out to the Spasski River Valley. Continue through the Tongass National Forest up one of the old logging roads to the trail head.

Once there, you will hike approximately two miles through private Native-owned lands, up an abandoned logging trail, to the secluded locally known viewing area. As you come to the top of the mountain, feel the serenity and see the breathtaking 360 degree views of Chichagof Island and its surrounding waterways and islands with nothing but nature all around you. Your local guide will share knowledge of the flora and fauna that inhabit the area, along with history of the land and its rich diverse culture.

The opportunity to see brown bears, Sitka black tailed deer, eagles, and even humpback whales abound. With very little time spent in the forest area, this our provides spectacular views of the area with ample opportunities for photography.

Duration:

Approximately 2.5 hours

Minimum age:

7 years old

Notes:

Group size is limited to 12 hikers per guide. Participants must be in good health and able to independently navigate terrain. Wear sturdy footwear and dress warmly in layers. This tour operates in all weather conditions.

Icy Strait Kayak Adventure

The protected waters of Port Frederick are yours to explore as you set off from the beach at Icy Strait Point in your two-person wilderness kayak. Led by your safety-certified, local guide, you will paddle along the Hoonah waterfront where bald eagles are often seen and few humans can usually follow.

Keep your eyes open and your spirit of adventure stoked along the way as humpback whales have been known to feed along the very same route. A motorized safety boat accompanies the tour but guests should be able to paddle through small waves against a moderate current.